While we were out in New Orleans at the National Conference on Volunteering and Service, the good folks at Deloitte put out the latest update in their annual Volunteer IMPACT Research Series, and we’re delighted to share some of the findings with you.

Using indicators such as workplace satisfaction, pride and loyalty, they compared the responses of Millennials who frequently volunteer against those who infrequently or never volunteer. Specifically, the survey targeted employed adults, ages 21 – 35. Further, the survey explored key barriers and drivers to participation in volunteer programs.

The 2011 data show that, in stark contrast to those Millennials who rarely or never volunteer through company-sponsored programs, those who do frequently get involved in nonprofit service are more likely to be proud, loyal and satisfied employees. What’s more, Millennials who frequently volunteer are nearly twice as likely to be “very satisfied” with the progression of their career — and two times more likely to rate their corporate culture as “very positive” as compared to those who rarely or never volunteer (56% versus 28%).

Volunteering As a Business Strategy

At a time when this and other studies reveal that one-third of Millennials are considering other job opportunities, Deloitte’s findings offer a strong argument for making volunteerism a business priority. Companies that view their volunteer programs as strategic assets and factor community involvement into their business planning may have a distinct advantage when it comes to engaging this civic-minded generation of workers.